Canadiens have 3 right-shot defense targets this off-season originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The 2025-26 season has certainly been a success for the Montreal Canadiens. They not only made the playoffs for the second consecutive season but have made it clear that they are capable of being one of the Eastern Conference’s best teams.
With how well the Canadiens have played this regular season, it would not be the least bit surprising if they look to continue upgrading their roster in the summer.
One of their biggest needs is a top-four right-shot defenseman, so let’s look at three blueliners they should consider targeting during the summer.
The Canadiens were one of the teams linked to Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen ahead of the deadline. His size and defensive capabilities make him a logical fit on the Canadiens’ blueline.
If the Canadiens landed Ristolainen, he would have the potential to be a strong fit on their second pairing and penalty kill due to his shutdown ability. With the Canadiens in need of a big right-shot defenseman with bite, Ristolainen would make sense as a summer target for them.
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If Rasmus Andersson ends up testing the free-agent market instead of signing an extension with the Vegas Golden Knights, it would make sense for the Canadiens to make a push for him. He is arguably the best right-shot defenseman on the free agent market this summer and would be a great pickup for the Canadiens’ top four.
Andersson’s versatility and strong two-way play would make him a clear option for both the Canadiens’ power play and penalty kill if they signed him.
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If Colton Parayko is willing to waive his no-movement clause this offseason, the Canadiens would be wise to target him. After almost dealing him to the Buffalo Sabres ahead of the deadline, it would not be shocking if the St. Louis Blues listened to offers for him again this summer.
If the Canadiens acquired Parayko, he could slot perfectly on their top pairing with Lane Hutson. He would also form a strong one-two punch with Noah Dobson on Montreal’s right side, which would be great for a Canadiens team on the rise.
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